W164 Ml320 Cdi Om642

Member

looking at a 200000km ML..... some advise please
What issues other than the oil cooler leak in the center of the engine, what issues are there with this engine? Its used in all sorts of applications so it must be OK? other than the whole EGR swirl flaps gunking up, what sort of mileage before it all goes south?
Gearbox seems silky smooth... any horror stories? its also used in many mercs.
The rear SAM module is a known issue, which can cause all sorts of electrical malfunctions....
Air suspension should be avoided....

They just seem like very solid cars, anyone have one with some good stories to share - good and bad

Member

Just drove my 'new to me' 2006 ml 320 cdi down from JHB last thursday - WOW what a beautiful drive! 1 owner car from sandhurst, absolute peach. 137000km on the clock.
Very surprised to do 1100km on a tank, with some 'testing'
The oil cooler has started to leak, so the dealer will sort that out. but at least its then done. Ive remounted the rear SAM module and sealed the tail lights.
Its the base model without air suspension, so wont have any surprises in that department.
I plan to do a gearbox oil and filter change, just to keep it in tip top shape. watched many you tube vids - seems quite easy.

Congratulations! Best wishes for many happy and safe travels.
The new technology cars are cetainly a pleasure to drive and very fuel efficient. There are still many things handy owners can do but allas, some parts are expensive and mostly Merc exclusive.